Environmental Planting at Annat Farm.
Intergenerational vision rooted in biodiversity.
The Wright family has farmed along the southern bank of the Waimakariri River for five generations. Today, their 435-hectare farm reflects a long-term commitment to integrating biodiversity, soil health and water quality into everyday farm practices.
Simon Wright has led the charge in restoring native ecosystems across the property, working closely with Te Ara Kākāriki, where he previously served as a trustee. With support from the CPWL Environmental Management Fund, the Wright family has extended native plantings to create biodiverse shelterbelts that connect and strengthen existing habitats.
Native planting driving productivity and resilience.
Over 12,000 native plants now thrive under pivot irrigation, providing food and shelter for native birds such as fantails, pīwakawaka; grey warblers, riroriro; bellbirds, korimako; and silvereyes, tauhou. Recently New Zealand falcon, karearea have been visiting the farm — a strong sign of healthy, recovering ecosystems.
These biodiverse corridors also support beneficial insects, improve soil structure and reduce wind exposure while enhancing productivity across the farm.
Backed by science: biodiversity for beneficial insects.
Simon’s work is part of the Biodiversity for Beneficial Insects research programme, led through the Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures Fund. This study examines how native plantings influence insect pollination, pest control and overall farm performance.
Researchers are comparing long-standing and recent native shelterbelts with unplanted control areas, using trapping surveys and pollinator monitoring to evaluate ecosystem services and real-world farm benefits.
Key outcomes.
- Native shelterbelts creating habitat for birds and beneficial insects.
- Improved soil health through nitrogen-fixing crops and rotational grazing.
- Research-led impact in partnership with CPWL, Te Ara Kākāriki and biodiversity scientists.
From the mountains to the sea, ki uta ki tai.
By combining sustainable irrigation, circular farming systems and ecological restoration, the Wrights are playing a leading role in establishing a connected biodiversity corridor — where native species thrive alongside productive farmland.
